The Knowledge Base of Future Studies
Unit code: HBF540
| Credit points | 12.5 Credit Points |
| Duration | 1 Semester |
| Contact hours | 36 hours of contact in weekly or block mode |
| Campus | Hawthorn |
| Prerequisites | Nil |
| Corequisites | Nil |
Related course(s)
A unit of study in the Master of Management (Strategic Foresight) suite and the Master of Commerce (Social Investment and Philanthropy) suite.Aims and objectives
After taking this unit of study students will:- be familiar with key ideas, concepts, models, tools, methods, overview 'maps' and literature in the Futures Studies/foresight disciplinary environment;
- recognise the central role played by 'mental models' in conceptualising the future and in undertaking any form of futures/foresight enquiry or activity;
- be prepared to 'join in the conversation' enabled through the international academic and applied futures discourse; and
- be ready to begin exploring possibilities for practical applications in specific organisational or other contexts.
Teaching methods
A range of teaching methods will be used, including lectures, presentations and small group activities.Assessment
Written response to journal article 10-20%
Written discussion piece of text: 20-30%
Written discussion piece of text: 20-30%
Major essay: 40-60%.
Class Contribution: 10%
Generic skills outcomes
Learners bring to Swinburne University of Technology a range of experiences and graduate with individual understandings, abilities and attitudes. Within this context it is the intent of Swinburne that all its graduates:
- are capable in their chosen professional, vocational or study areas
- operate effectively in work and community situations
- are adaptable and manage change
- are entrepreneurial in contributing to innovation and development within their business, workplace or community
- are aware of the dynamic nature of environments.
Content
The purpose of the introductory unit of study is to outline core components of the knowledge base of Futures Studies and to provide students with a number of concepts, overviews of methods, tools, and 'maps' or 'guides' to the territory. This foundational knowledge will allow students to locate themselves (and/or their organisations) within a disciplinary matrix and to begin the process of acquiring 'fluency' in futures/foresight enquiry.
The main themes explored in this unit of study are:
- Introduction to the Foundations of Futures Studies/Foresight
- Key Futures concepts and ideas
- Mapping the (FS) Territory
- Understanding value systems and personal perspectives
- Scoping the 'singularity'
- Professional Standards, Writing, Communicating in FS
References
Bell, W. (2003-2004) Foundations of futures studies. New Brunswick, NJ, USA, Transaction Publishers.
